carpet

carpet glossary

Also known as the face of the carpet, it consists of the yarn that makes the surface of carpet. It is found in loops, cut loops, and a combination of both.

Pile Crush

A condition that occurs when areas of carpet experience heavy traffic or furniture. This causes the pile to become crushed and lose thickness. In some situations, this can be a permanent condition.

Pile Height

Height is determined by measuring the distance between the primary backing of the carpet to the tip of the tufts; also referred to as "the nap." In general, carpet with shorter pile height tends to hold up better to wear and tear.

Pilling

A condition that occurs when carpet fibers from different tufts knot together, forming "masses" or "pills." Often times these can be cut with scissors.

Plush

A luxury carpet that is smooth and velvety. It is normally made from cut pile carpet that is brushed or sheared.

Ply

Single ends of carpet yarn that are twisted together to form plied carpet. Measurement of the yarn's thickness.

Polyester

A synthetic material that is often used in carpet yarn. It is not as resilient as nylon, but is fairly fade and stain resistant.

Polypropylene

Polypropylene or Olefin fibers are petroleum–based synthetic materials derived from propylene and ethylene gases.
The fiber is characterized by its resistance to moisture. It is often heat–set to guarantee vibrant color, long lasting
beauty and easy maintenance. It is quick drying and mildew, soil and stain resistant. Its fibers have the lowest density of
all manufactured fibers giving olefin textiles a very lightweight quality.

Power Stretcher

A device used to stretch carpet to prevent wrinkles when using a tack-less strip installation.